Kensington Palace

Overview

Set amid the tranquillity of Kensington Gardens in the heart of West London, Kensington Palace has been a royal residence for over three hundred years. Today, as well as being a popular London landmark for visitors from around the world, it is also an inspiring venue for stylish events including weddings, private dinners and fashion events.

Review

The opulent Kensington Palace event spaces provide a rich and sumptuous backdrop for a memorable event in central London. The Queen's Gallery is the ideal setting for a reception while the Cupola Room, King's Drawing Room or King's Gallery; all lavishly decorated by William Kent, are dramatic spaces for events such as dinners and banquets.

Since 1704, the graceful Orangery has been a historic location for summer events and garden parties. Originally built for Queen Anne, today the Orangery is the perfect venue for a summer wedding or a very special birthday party. Still home to British royalty, Kensington Palace's timeless elegance and storied past will charm and delight event guests and makes the venue a stylish and elegant location for large scale events. The palace is available to hire for evening events of up to 2,000 people in both summer and winter. Please note that due to the nature of the venue, the palace is limited to holding no more than 80 events each year.

History

Originally a private country house, the building was acquired in 1689 by William III and Mary II who commissioned Christopher Wren to transform the site into their elegant new London home, away from the noise and bustle of Whitehall. For the next 70 years the palace was at the centre of royal life and played host to the courts of William and Mary, Queen Anne, George I and George II. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of the future Queen Victoria and here, on that fateful day in 1837, that she received news that her uncle was dead, and that she was Queen. More recent residents have also included Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. Today, it remains a Royal Household and is also home to the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. The State Apartments are open to visitors throughout the year.